1) Be careful where you stay. San Diego County is more than twice the size of the state of Delaware, and even the city covers a lot of ground. So you can spend a lot of time driving around, depending on where you start. That’s the key. Certain neighborhoods are far more walkable and closer to fun activities than others. If you stay in La Jolla, Pacific Beach, Coronado, or the greater Downtown area (including Gaslamp/Embarcadero/Little Italy), you can spend at least a day or two car-free.
2) Use public transportation when you can. Compared to a lot of places, San Diego’s bus and trolley network is pretty sketchy. But some connections (downtown to Balboa Park, for instance) are a breeze, and the ferry to Coronado is more than just a people mover. It’s also the cheapest way experience the bay and the best cityscapes ($6 for the round trip). If you’re determined to visit Tijuana, taking the trolley to the border and walking around makes a whole lot more sense than breathing the carbon monoxide in that (typically) 1- to 2-hour-long line to get back into the US.
3) Taking a guided tour is another way to shrink that carbon footprint. The Old Town Trolley tours offer off-and-on service over 1 or 2 days. Or for a more personal and customized experience, a private guided tour can chauffeur you places other tourists never hear about.
4) Limit side trips. The range of things to do in Southern California is dizzying. But don’t let it turn your head. Ditch those sidetrips to Disneyland and Hollywood, and you’ll still have so many choices in San Diego, you won’t be able to do it all.
5) When you do have to gas up, don’t pay top dollar.If you’ve got access to a computer, check http://www.sandiegogasprices.com/. You can choose from among 50 neighborhoods throughout the county and get a run-down on the prices within that area.
